Responsible Wood is proud to announce the launch of our Indigenous Communication and Engagement Protocol.
The document has been developed to ensure Responsible Wood communicates and engages with Indigenous Peoples in a culturally appropriate manner, and that its communication with the general public on Indigenous matters is both culturally appropriate and, where appropriate, consistent with the principles of prior and informed consent.
“This is not a tokenistic effort to be put on a shelf and forgotten about”, said Responsible Wood Sustainability Manager, Matt de Jongh. “As an organisation we want to look at ways we can better communicate with indigenous communities and peoples.”
“The Protocol is already playing a key role in guiding our work in supporting indigenous communities who are benefiting from certification in their region”.
The Protocol lists Guiding Principles and guidelines for activities with Indigenous Peoples and related public communication for use by Responsible Wood and its certified entities.
Aimed at increasing the effectiveness of Indigenous engagement in the forest sector across the country, it also details regional frameworks that are utilised by staff to facilitate Indigenous engagement and communication.
The Protocol is intended to support more respectful and effective engagement between Responsible Wood and Indigenous Peoples. By providing clear guidance and fostering culturally appropriate practices, it can help strengthen collaboration in forest management and certified forest product supply chains. It also aims to build broader awareness of Indigenous knowledge systems and cultural perspectives within the forest sector and wider community.
View the Indigenous Communication and Engagement Protocol here.
